The Little Rock School District announced this afternoon that it's hired Jason Pickering as the principal of the new middle school opening this fall in West Little Rock.

Pickering previously served as an assistant principal at Central High from 2005 to 2010. Since 2010, he's been principal at Bryant High School. He graduated from Hendrix College in 1994 with a degree in political science, after which he taught history and coached at LRSD's Parkview High for seven years. He also served as an assistant principal at the former Southwest Middle School from 2002 - 2005.

Little Rock School District Superintendent Baker Kurrus announced today the selection of Dr. Jason Pickering of Little Rock as principal of the new west Little Rock middle school, located at 5701 Ranch Rd.

Pickering has served as principal of Bryant High School since 2010. His previous experience includes an extensive administrative career in the Little Rock School District, having served as assistant principal at Central High School (2005-2010) and the former Southwest Middle School (2002-2005). Prior to his administrative roles, he was a teacher and coach at Parkview Arts and Science Magnet High School.

“The Little Rock School District is pleased to welcome home Dr. Pickering,” said Kurrus. “As an alum of the LRSD administrative team, he is uniquely qualified to serve our students and families. We believe he has the talent, experience and commitment necessary to help our students achieve their full potential.”

“I am absolutely thrilled to return to the Little Rock School District, and honored to be chosen to open the new campus. The middle school years are some of the most critical, and I look forward to helping our students make this important transition,” said Pickering. “With the expertise and dedication of our teachers, we will work to ensure students are not only engaged, but prepared for high school, college and career. It truly is an exciting opportunity,” he added.

Dr. Pickering holds both a Doctorate and Master of Education in Educational Administration and Supervision from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. He received a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science.

He will be the first principal at the new middle school, slated to open this fall with an inaugural class of approximately 250 6th graders. Grades 7 and 8 will be added in subsequent years. One of Dr. Pickering’s first orders of business will be to hire staff.

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